FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 29, 2025

WEST GRAND SCHOOL DISTRICT 5TH GRADER WINS 2ND PLACE IN COLORADO NATIONAL MISSING CHILDREN’S DAY POSTER CONTEST

GRAND COUNTY, CO – On May 27, 2025, Irie Boettcher, a West Grand Elementary 5th grade student, was recognized by the Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for her outstanding artwork that won 2nd place in the Colorado National Missing Children’s Day poster contest. 

In January, 2025, the Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) joined the U.S. Department of Justice and invited all 5th graders to participate in the National Missing Children's Day Poster Contest. This was a great opportunity for students to use their creativity to raise awareness about missing children and help bring them home. By participating in this contest, 5th graders were able to make a real difference in the lives of missing children, their families and help raise awareness about this important issue.

As part of the Drug Abuse Resistance Education (DARE) program at West Grand School District facilitated by Deputy / School Resource Officer DJ Elthorp, West Grand 5th grade students participated in the poster contest. Each student created a drawing representing a missing puzzle piece — a powerful symbol of those still missing.

Out of entries from students across the entire State of Colorado, Irie’s artwork earned 2nd place and she was honored for her achievement during West Grand School District’s 4th Quarter RIDE Assembly.

Pictured with Irie Boettcher are Deputy / School Resource Officer DJ Elthorp, CBI Investigative Analyst Melissa McGaw, and CBI Agent Tammi Krebs.

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